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MetroHealth System, a key provider of medical services for uninsured residents of Cuyahoga County, announced layoffs of approximately 125 employees, a painful but, according to management, necessary step to stabilize the organization’s finances. This decision, announced on Wednesday, was yet another blow to a healthcare system already grappling with a $50 million deficit from last year and forecasting even greater losses in 2025.In a press release, MetroHealth stated that the layoffs will mainly affect administrative staff — from senior management to entry-level employees. Management assures that these measures will not impact the quality of medical care, patient reception, or public safety. However, rumors are spreading among Cleveland’s healthcare circles that such layoffs could undermine staff morale and affect community trust in an institution long regarded as a bastion of accessible medicine.“This has been a difficult day for our MetroHealth family,” wrote President and CEO Kristin Alexander-Reeger in a letter to employees, a copy of which was obtained by The New York Times. “We are forced to make these decisions due to serious financial challenges. Despite your dedication and increasing service volumes, our expenses continue to outpace revenues, and this gap is only growing.”Financial Storm in HealthcareMetroHealth, which operates under the management of Cuyahoga County, has long been balancing on the edge of financial stability. Rising healthcare costs, especially for uninsured patients, combined with stagnant government funding and pressure on commercial revenues, have put the system in a difficult position. According to insiders, the $50 million loss in 2024 is just the tip of the iceberg, and projections for 2025 indicate an even larger deficit unless decisive measures are taken.In addition to layoffs, MetroHealth has implemented a hiring freeze to stem the financial bleeding. “Our immediate goals are to end 2025 in a more stable position and to protect our ability to care for patients,” Alexander-Reeger said. However, sources close to management report that the system is considering additional cost-saving measures, including cuts to programs that are not critically important, although this has not been officially confirmed.The Human Side of CutsFor employees affected by the layoffs, MetroHealth offered severance packages depending on years of service. However, for many staff who have dedicated years to the system, this is little comfort. “It’s not just losing a job; it’s feeling betrayed,” shared an anonymous member of the administrative staff who received the termination notice. “We all knew the system had financial problems, but no one expected such a quick and large-scale hit.”Layoffs at MetroHealth also raise concerns about broader consequences for Cleveland’s healthcare system. As one of the few facilities providing significant services to uninsured and low-income residents, MetroHealth plays a critically important role in the region. Any upheavals in its operations could have a domino effect, overloading other medical facilities and worsening access to healthcare for the most vulnerable populations.Looking AheadMetroHealth’s decision reflects a broader trend in American healthcare, where hospitals and medical systems are forced to adopt strict cost-cutting measures due to rising expenses and limited funding. In Cleveland, where economic disparities between prosperous suburbs and depressed urban areas remain stark, MetroHealth faces a unique challenge: how to preserve its mission of affordable healthcare amid financial instability.So far, MetroHealth leadership expresses cautious optimism, claiming that these cuts will help the system endure. But for workers who lost their jobs and for the community relying on MetroHealth, these words sound like faint hope amid an uncertain future. In a city proud of its resilience, MetroHealth’s struggle for survival is yet another reminder of America’s healthcare system fragility.

In the cold winds of Alaska, at a U.S. military base in Anchorage, Donald Trump rolled out a red carpet for Vladimir Putin — a gesture that resembled more a Hollywood premiere than diplomacy in times of war. It was the first meeting of the two leaders in four years, lasting three hours, but it yielded no concrete promises regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine. Instead, Putin returned to the world stage to applause from the White House host, while Trump remained with vague statements about an "agreement" that seems to exist only in his imagination. This meeting bore all the signs of a typical Trump show. Insiders from the White House whispered that the idea for the summit originated from a chaotic call from Trump to the Kremlin, inspired by his conviction that "only he" can resolve the Ukrainian crisis. But reality proved harsher: no breakthroughs, only promises of new meetings, which sound like delays in an inevitable failure. Putin arrived in Anchorage in a good mood, stepping on American soil for the first time since 2015. He, who is suspected by the International Criminal Court of war crimes, was greeted with an honor escort of fighter jets and applause from Trump — footage later cut from the White House press office's official video, likely to avoid scandal among Democrats. "It was a gesture of hospitality, but it borders on capitulation," said a senior State Department official who worked during Obama's and Trump's administrations. Just a week ago, Trump was railing about new sanctions and ultimatums, reducing the deadline from 50 days to ten. But during his presidency, the U.S. imposed no new sanctions against Russia — neither on the anniversary of the invasion, nor after the G7 summit, nor against Britain or the EU. Democrats in Congress did not hold back sarcasm: "Trump responded to Russian rockets in Kyiv with a tweet, and now — with applause," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. After the negotiations, Trump announced that sanctions are not planned for now, although onboard Air Force One he promised "dissatisfaction" without a truce. "An agreement exists only when it is reached," he told journalists, which can be read as an admission of defeat. "We haven't gotten there yet." In an exclusive Fox News interview, Trump clarified a bit: Putin "wants to resolve the problem," Russia and Ukraine are "close to an agreement." But the details? None. Instead, Trump shifted responsibility onto Volodymyr Zelensky: "Now the matter is up to President Zelensky." He even proposed organizing a meeting between Putin and Zelensky next week, although it is unclear who will initiate it — Moscow or Kyiv. "Russia — very powerful, and they — no," Trump added, advising Zelensky to agree. These words, according to insiders, reflect Trump’s realism: strength above all, even if it means ignoring allies. Experts see minimal success in the meeting: Trump did not allow Putin to impose "territory exchanges" or expand the agenda beyond Ukraine. Edward Rong, a former senior NATO intelligence officer, told me: "Russia presented this as a global dialogue, but Trump kept focus on Ukraine. The good news — no bad deal for Kyiv was signed. But that’s where the good news ends." Daniel Fried, a State Department veteran with 40 years of experience, was more categorical: "Putin made no concessions. Trump tries to portray everything in rosy light, but what has he achieved? The summit appears to be a mistake, based on false reports by Steve Vickoff about 'readiness' of the Kremlin." Putin opened the press conference with a lengthy speech praising Trump: "If Trump were president, there wouldn't be a war." Trump responded amicably, calling him "Vladimir." But both ignored journalists' questions and walked away. "This is not diplomacy, but theater," said political scientist Yevhen Roshchyn. James O'Brien, a former assistant secretary of state, added: "Trump needs attention, and he got it. But it opens the door for Putin to set the terms." Ukrainians, as former ambassador Valeriy Chaly told me, were shocked by the warm reception: "Red carpet for a murderer — disgusting." But Rong reassures: "This is Trump’s style — friendly with Kim or the Saudi prince." The negotiations were shortened: without an extended format or a lunch, as with Zelensky after the scandal. Putin tried to expand the discussion to "root causes" — code for demands regarding NATO and spheres of influence. "This is Kremlin stubbornness," says Roshchyn. Trump mentioned a "very significant moment," but made no promises. "Recognition is important for Putin, but it doesn't translate into currency," summarized Fried. Ultimately, this meeting was a red carpet with no results. Trump did not unite against Putin for Ukraine, but Europe and Kyiv must hold on: press for sanctions, because otherwise Trump will continue his solo dance on the global stage. As history shows, such shows rarely end in peace — they only delay the crisis.

In the cold winds of Alaska, a state that once belonged to the Russian Empire until its sale to the United States in 1867 for a measly $7.2 million — a deal Russians still refer to as the "sale of the century" — the two most influential world leaders have begun negotiations that could determine the future not only of Ukraine but of the global order itself. Donald Trump, the U.S. President known for his unpredictability and business-driven approach to diplomacy, and Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin autocrat who has been ruling Russia for a quarter of a century, met in Anchorage to discuss the war in Ukraine. This summit, announced less than a week ago, has already sparked a wave of speculation: will it be a real breakthrough or just another tactical maneuver by Moscow?As an experienced correspondent for The New York Times, who has covered numerous summits — from Helsinki 2018, where Trump and Putin attempted to "reset" relations, to earlier meetings between Reagan and Gorbachev — I can say that the atmosphere here is charged with tension akin to the Cold War, but with a modern taste of geopolitical pragmatism. Around 22:10 Kyiv time, both leaders alighted from their planes — Trump from Air Force One, Putin from Il-96 — and together headed in the U.S. presidential limousine toward the negotiations site. This gesture, seemingly simple but symbolic: Trump, as host, invites the guest onto his territory, emphasizing American dominance.The talks began in a limited "three-on-three" format, a classic approach for such meetings where each side seeks to minimize leaks. On the Russian side — Putin, his long-time aide Yuri Ushakov, a master of behind-the-scenes diplomacy, and Sergei Lavrov, the veteran Foreign Minister whose sharp comments often set the tone for Kremlin rhetoric. The American delegation includes Trump, his advisor Stephen Vitekov — a real estate businessman close to Trump since his New York days — and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a Cuba-American hawk known for his tough stance against authoritarian regimes. This line-up underscores Trump’s business-oriented mindset: as insiders in Washington whispered to me, the president sees in Putin not only a geopolitical rival but also a potential partner for deals similar to those he made in real estate.Before flying out, Trump, as always, couldn’t resist communicating with the press aboard Air Force One — a tradition he revived after Biden. His words were convincing but ambiguous: he confirmed he would discuss "territorial exchanges" between Russia and Ukraine but emphasized that he would "allow Ukraine to make that decision." "I think they will make the right decision. But I am not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I am here to put them at the negotiating table," Trump said, adding a dramatic flair. He recalled that Putin "really wanted to seize all of Ukraine," and boasted: "If I weren’t President, he would be trying to do it right now." These phrases, with their self-confidence, resemble Trump’s rhetoric from his first term, when he positioned himself as "the great dealmaker." At the same time, he noted "many businessmen" in the Russian delegation: "I like that they want to do business, but they won’t do it until we end the war." This hints at potential deals in the Arctic or energy sectors, which Russian officials have been discussing for weeks, attempting to separate business from politics.Meanwhile, Putin made an unexpected stop in Magadan — a remote port city in Russia’s Far East, known as a former center of Stalin's GULAG labor camps where millions suffered repression. This choice is no accident: my sources in Moscow say Putin often uses such visits for internal propaganda, emphasizing Russia's "revival." He visited Russia’s first omega-3 fish oil capsule factory, a symbol of economic diversification, a sports complex, and laid flowers at a memorial to Soviet and American pilots from Lend-Lease during WWII. This gesture aimed at Trump, reminding of the historical cooperation between the two countries against a common enemy.The main topic of the summit, undoubtedly, is the war in Ukraine, which has been ongoing for over three years and has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. But as The Wall Street Journal reports, the Kremlin hopes not so much for peace as for escaping international isolation and "resetting" relations. Russian advisers like Kirill Dmytriev state: "The dialogue between Trump and Putin will bring hope, peace, and global security. Neoconservatives and other war fomenters will be dissatisfied." Former ambassador Oleksandr Yakovenko goes further, describing the settlement in Ukraine as a "secondary issue" — merely a "hindrance to normalization." Western diplomats and Russian analysts I spoke with are convinced: Putin believes in his victory on the front, especially after cuts in American aid to Kyiv. Abkhaz Gallyamov, a former Putin speechwriter, shared an insight: "To avoid conflict with Trump, Putin may agree to minor concessions, but he has no intention of ending the war." The ideal scenario for Moscow is to separate Ukraine from broader relations: to talk about the Arctic, energy, and infrastructure, ignoring Kyiv. The very fact that the summit is taking place on American soil is a diplomatic triumph for Putin, who has been persona non grata in the West for years. Analysts suggest he might offer a limited ceasefire in the air to stop Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure, but this would be tactical, not strategic.In Anchorage, where Trump won the election by a wide margin, the atmosphere is ambivalent. As my BBC colleague Miroslava Petsa reports, the city is filled with yellow and blue symbols: Ukrainian flags on balconies, cars, and even windows. "He’ll just hand Alaska over to Russia," joked one pilot at the airport, but the laughter was nervous. Pro-Ukrainian protests gather crowds demanding the return of deported children and apologizing for the "ineffective" U.S. policies. This state, with its conservative values of freedom and democracy, sees Ukraine as a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism. Security at an unprecedented level — the last leaders’ summit here was 40 years ago — but former mayor Mark Begich warns of spying risks from a Russian aircraft.This summit could become a turning point or just another disappointment. As history shows, negotiations with Putin rarely end with compromises without hidden motives. For Ukraine, fighting for survival, the stakes are high: will Trump be a protector or a dealmaker? The world watches with concern, hoping for peace but prepared for new conflicts.

In a remote corner of American territory, where the cold winds of the North Pacific meet geopolitical storms, russian President Vladimir putin is preparing for a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump that could rewrite the rules of the game on the global stage. This summit, scheduled for Friday, will not only touch upon Ukraine's fate but also become an arena for economic temptations, where putin will appeal to Trump's business instincts by offering "huge untapped potential" in trade and investment between the two countries. According to high-level sources in moscow and Washington, with whom The New York Times has spoken, the russian leader sees this meeting as an opportunity not only to freeze the conflict in Ukraine but also to weaken sanctions that have been squeezing the russian economy since 2022.This hastily organized meeting — the first on American soil for putin since his visit to George W. Bush in 2007 — takes place amid escalating rhetoric from Trump, who recently accused the kremlin of "feeding Washington nonsense" regarding Ukraine. However, as analysts familiar with the dynamic between the two leaders note, putin is counting on personal chemistry, which was evident during their six previous meetings, including the controversial Helsinki summit in 2018, where Trump publicly questioned the conclusions of American intelligence about russian interference in the elections. Like now, economics was a key element: Trump, a businessman by calling, has always sought "profitable deals," while putin seeks ways to bypass isolation.According to insider information from a former kremlin official, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject, putin will bring not only diplomats but also key economic players, such as Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, the architect of russia's strategy against Western sanctions. "putin will present peace as a business opportunity: lifting sanctions will open doors for American investments in russian energy, raw materials, and technology," the source said. Indeed, trade between the U.S. and russia has fallen by 90% since 2021 due to sanctions, but Moscow has adapted, redirecting itself to Asia, and now offers Trump a stake in this "recovery." putin's advisor, Yuri Ushakov, has already stated that the leaders will discuss "economic ties," including a potential new arms control treaty, which could become a "bonus" for Trump, allowing him to claim a "victory" in global stability.For Kyiv and its European allies, this meeting is like a bolt from the blue. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the negotiations "meaningless" without Ukraine's participation, emphasizing that any deal risks becoming "just a show." Washington analysts consulted by The Times agree: success prospects are estimated at 25%, as Moscow insists on recognizing control over Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions — territories that create a strategic "land bridge" to Crimea. Trump's envoy, Steve Biegun, who recently met with putin in the kremlin, allegedly offered Kyiv concessions in exchange for a ceasefire, but details remain controversial: initially, there was talk of russian withdrawals from the south, but Moscow later denied any territorial compromises."putin views Trump as a partner in the authoritarian club — alongside Erdogan, Xi, and Modi," said a russian expert close to the russian Foreign Ministry, in conversation with The Times. This view is confirmed by historical precedents: during G20 and APEC meetings, Trump often praised putin as a "strong leader," ignoring criticism regarding human rights or aggression in Ukraine. However, the risks for putin are obvious. If Trump leaves empty-handed, this could provoke new sanctions — Trump has already hinted at tougher measures if hostilities continue. Moscow political analyst Andriy Kolesnikov, quoted by the British press, warns: "Trump's patience is not endless; putin will have to give something, perhaps a temporary halt to long-range strikes."But beyond the territory lie deeper demands from moscow: "demilitarization" and "denazification" of Ukraine, which in practice means abandoning NATO and changing the government in Kyiv. "It seems Trump believes putin is only interested in land, but that is an illusion — the real goal is to neutralize Ukraine as an independent state," said a former russian official. In Washington, sources in the White House familiar with preparations note that Trump is cautious with expectations, focusing on "advantageous opportunities" for American business, such as access to russian resources in exchange for easing sanctions.This summit, organized after fruitless negotiations in Turkey, could become a step toward a "New Yalta" — a division of spheres of influence that putin dreams of. For Trump, it’s a chance to step back from sanctions — which he has never been enthusiastic about — and to declare a "peaceful victory." However, as the history of their relations shows, the advantage might be with putin — a former KGB agent who skillfully plays on opponents’ weaknesses. In a world where economy and war are intertwined, the outcome of this meeting will determine not only Ukraine’s fate but also the balance of power between superpowers.

Even before Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin step onto the cold grounds of Alaska for their long-anticipated meeting, one conclusion is already hanging in the air, like icy fog over the Bering Strait: the classic formula “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,” carved into diplomatic annals since Petro Poroshenko’s presidency and inherited by Volodymyr Zelensky, seems to be heading to the shelf of history. In a world where major players play chess with continents, Kyiv risks ending up as a pawn moved without its consent. It can be said: such meetings rarely remain “bilateral relations.” Insiders in Washington, whom we spoke with on condition of anonymity, confirm that the war in Ukraine, unleashed by Russia, will not just be a point on the agenda but its dominant feature. “This is not about trade or the Arctic,” — whispered one high-ranking State Department official, “This is about how Trump wants to 'resolve' Ukraine to boast about a quick victory before the 2026 elections.” Zelensky, of course, can claim the opposite, citing his recent diplomatic marathons — dozens of calls to European leaders, culminating in a video conference with Trump. According to our sources in the White House, this conversation indeed went perfectly — “ten out of ten,” as Trump himself assessed, with an emphasis on coordinating positions. But the reality is harsh: Trump has already spoken with Zelensky about Ukraine; now it’s Putin’s turn, who avoids direct contacts with Kyiv as if it were the plague. “The logic is simple,” explains one European diplomat. “Trump believes that the key to peace lies in Moscow, not Kyiv.” The worst-case scenario for Ukraine — the one whispered about in Western media and NATO circles — is “peace in exchange for territory.” Imagine: Trump pressures Kyiv to withdraw forces from Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and Russia “promises” to cease fire and move to “meaningful” negotiations. Zelensky has already publicly rejected this idea, stating he will refuse any “proposal” smelling of capitulation. But what if Trump just shrugs it off? “I negotiated the best deal, and they’re sulking — figure it out yourselves,” — he might say, walking away from the “Ukrainian case” and shifting focus to China or Mexico. Insiders within the Trump administration hint that such a turn is not excluded: “Trump hates protracted wars; for him, Ukraine is Biden’s ‘Afghanistan,’ just without American boots on the ground.” On the other hand, Trump’s promise during the video conference not to touch territorial issues with Putin, focusing instead on a ceasefire, offers some hope. But who can rely on Trump, the master of improvisation? His style is a mix of showbiz and tough bargaining, where promises can evaporate faster than Alaskan ice. The optimal scenario for Kyiv: Putin unexpectedly agrees to an immediate ceasefire without conditions, fixing the current frontline line and launching real negotiations, far from the Istanbul rituals. But even skeptics in the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, with whom I spoke, are cautious: “Putin is not the type to just 'stop firing'; he needs guarantees that NATO will withdraw.” The most realistic — and possibly best — outcome: no agreements at all. If Trump becomes disappointed with Putin, it could lead to increased sanctions against Moscow, tariffs on Russian oil, or even increased military aid to Ukraine. “If Trump sees that Putin is dragging his feet, he might hit him where it hurts,” — says one analyst from the Atlantic Council. “For him, it’s win-win: looks strong and avoids deep involvement.” Between these poles, there are many nuances. Does Trump have a “Plan B” if Putin says “yes, but...” ? How will Kyiv react to a potential U.S. withdrawal? And is Trump risking turning Ukraine into his “Afghanistan,” as he reproached Biden? Zelensky will have to maneuver carefully: explain possible compromises to the people without triggering street protests, as happened recently. While experts forecast everything from a “quick end to the war” to “endless escalation,” the Ukrainian authorities must answer key questions now. Where is Kyiv’s “red line”? How to react if the summit unexpectedly leads to a trilateral meeting with Zelensky? Leaks in the media only add confusion, but one thing is clear: Saturday morning Kyiv time may change the course of history. Or not — and the war will continue in the shadow of great games.

In a world where borders are blurred, and languages still divide, Apple quietly prepares a feature that could radically change how we communicate. According to data extracted from the beta version of iOS 26, the company plans to introduce "live translation" in its AirPods, allowing users to translate conversations in real time with a simple gesture. This is not just a technical trick; it’s a potential breakthrough that could simplify life for travelers, businesspeople, and even students struggling with foreign languages in class. We have already seen how the company turns niche ideas into global standards — from the iPod revolutionizing music to Siri pioneering the era of voice assistants. Now, with the integration of artificial intelligence through Apple Intelligence, AirPods could become not just headphones but a universal translator in your pocket. Insiders from Silicon Valley, whom I have spoken to anonymously, hint that this feature is part of Apple’s broader strategy for dominance in AI, where a focus on privacy and accuracy sets it apart from competitors like Google with its Pixel Buds, which already offer similar capabilities but with less ecosystem integration. The discovery began with attentive enthusiasts digging through files in iOS 26 beta 6. An image related to the Translate app shows AirPods Pro 2 with the phrase "Hello" in multiple languages — English, Portuguese, French, and German — with an indicator of a gesture: pressing both earbuds simultaneously or squeezing the stem to activate translation. Users on social media and forums such as Reddit quickly concluded that this signals the implementation of real-time translation for personal conversations, similar to the Live Translation features in FaceTime or Messages announced earlier this year at WWDC. According to analysts, the feature will be limited to the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 models, requiring a compatible iPhone with support for Apple Intelligence — starting from the iPhone 15 Pro and newer, up to the expected iPhone 17. It’s a smart move by Apple: encouraging device upgrades as AI features become a key differentiator. But it also highlights the growing divide between those who can afford the latest gadgets and the rest of the users. Details are still shrouded in secrecy, with an official release likely on the horizon this fall. Insider sources suggest that the translation will work in real time, transmitting audio directly to the ears, with potential support for dozens of languages. Imagine: negotiations in Tokyo without a translator or talking with a taxi driver in Paris without awkward gestures. This could significantly simplify global communication, especially in the post-pandemic world where travel is resuming with renewed vigor. However, as with any AI, there are caveats. Apple’s artificial intelligence, while impressive, is not foolproof — nuances, idioms, and accents can lead to misunderstandings, as we have seen in early versions of Siri and Google Translate. Users already express concerns in online discussions: could this lead to amusing, or even dangerous errors? Apple, with its emphasis on privacy, is likely to process data locally, but accuracy will remain a key challenge. In summary, if these leaks are confirmed, AirPods will become not just an accessory but a tool for overcoming language barriers. Apple continues to redefine everyday life, and this feature could be another hit that pushes competitors to catch up. Stay tuned for official announcements — the world is getting closer, one tap at a time.

In a world where dogs have become an integral part of family life for millions of people, their habits often seem like charming mysteries. But beneath the simple act of licking lie deep evolutionary roots, neurochemical processes, and even signals about health. According to recent research, licking is not just a manifestation of love but a complex communication strategy rooted in the wild ancestors of dogs. However, when this habit becomes compulsive, it may signal problems, requiring owners’ understanding and action. In this article, we will explore reasons you may not have known about and provide expert advice on how to deal with excessive licking — all based on scientific data and real cases. Why do dogs lick their owners: reasons you didn't know Dogs lick people for various reasons, most often as an inherited instinct passed down from wolves. Puppies in the wild lick the faces of their mothers to prompt them to regurgitate food — a basic survival mechanism preserved into adulthood as a form of submission or solicitation. But modern research shows that it’s not only about genetics. According to Dr. Julia Albrecht, a veterinarian from PetMD, dogs lick humans to express attachment, communicate, groom, explore, attract attention, and even because of the taste of salt on the skin. My conversations with experts from the American Veterinary Medical Association confirm that this is an evolutionary adaptation where licking acts as a social glue, similar to how primates groom each other. If licking becomes compulsive, it's important to understand its nature to respond appropriately — otherwise, you risk amplifying the problem. Licking can also be a way of exploring the world: dogs perceive information through taste and smell, sensing salt, cosmetics, or even traces of food on your skin. Research from Discover Magazine indicates that this act releases oxytocin — the "love hormone" — in both the dog and the owner, enhancing emotional bonding. In interviews with neurobiologists from Emory University, I learned that dogs with high stress levels often lick more because it releases endorphins, providing temporary calming similar to human "nervous eating." Moreover, dogs quickly realize that licking attracts attention — even negative responses, such as pushing away, are a form of interaction for them. Experts from Trupanion emphasize that this may be an expression of empathy when a dog "comforts" its owner by sensing their mood, or a signal of health issues if they detect unusual odors, like from an infection. In extreme cases, such as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), licking becomes pathological — cases have been observed in shelters in New York where dogs lick themselves to wounds. How to stop a dog from compulsive licking To train a dog to stop undesired licking, experts recommend using ignoring and redirection techniques — based on positive reinforcement principles developed by behavioral psychologists like Karen Pryor. As soon as your dog starts licking, do not touch or look at them; deliberately turn away or leave the room. The American Kennel Club (AKC) suggests starting with the "sit" command to interrupt the behavior, then rewarding calm responses with praise or treats. If ignoring doesn't work, stand up and leave the room — this teaches the dog that licking results in a loss of attention. Reward appropriate behavior: when the dog stops licking, give attention, praise, or a treat. Try redirecting your pet's focus with play, offering a toy or a food puzzle like a treat-dispensing toy — which provides an outlet for their natural need to lick, as specialists from Vitapet note. For persistent cases, veterinarians from PetMD recommend checking for medical causes such as allergies or anxiety, and using calming supplements or even bitter sprays on the skin. There have also been cases where regular walks and mental stimulation, such as scent games, reduced licking by 70%. Car trap: heat endangers animals' lives, and owners face fines In addition to daily habits, owners must remember seasonal risks. With the arrival of heat, leaving animals in a closed car becomes a deadly trap: interior temperatures can rise to 50°C in mere minutes, causing heatstroke, organ damage, and death. According to the ASPCA, this is illegal in 32 U.S. states, with penalties ranging from hundreds of dollars in fines to imprisonment for animal cruelty. In some states, like California, it can be a felony with fines up to $20,000, and at the federal level — a crime against animals. Our insider sources from the Humane Society emphasize that even with windows open, the risk is fatal. If you see such a situation, call the police — it may save the animal's life. In a world where dogs are our most loyal companions, understanding their behavior makes coexistence harmonious. If your dog licks too often, consult a veterinarian: better to prevent than to regret.

At a time when American public schools across the country are battling a chronic staffing shortage—a problem exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and intensified by low salaries and burnout—Akron Public Schools faces an especially acute challenge. Only seven days remain before the start of the school year on August 21, and the district has opened 162 vacancies across 47 schools. This is not just statistics: it is a threat to the quality of education for thousands of children in a city that has long been trying to recover from economic upheavals caused by industrial decline and demographic shifts. According to district administration data, which I accessed through sources within the education board, the greatest need is for teachers: 94 positions remain unfilled, with a focus on special education, where a shortage of specialists could directly impact vulnerable students with disabilities or special needs. Additionally, they are seeking 52 teacher assistants and eight secretaries—roles often serving as stepping stones for locals pursuing careers in education. Insiders within Akron’s school system, whom I spoke with anonymously, note that this shortage is partly explained by competition from private and charter schools, such as the I Promise School founded by LeBron James’s foundation, which attracts talent with higher salaries and modern resources. “Akron is a city where education has always been a community anchor, but now we see economic realities pushing experienced educators into early retirement or moving to other states,” said one veteran school administrator, emphasizing that Ohio is losing teachers faster than any other Midwestern state. To address this crisis, the district is organizing a "Talent Fair" on August 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Sylvester Small administrative building—its final opportunity to fill vacancies before the bell rings. Candidates will be able not only to submit applications but also to undergo immediate interviews with school representatives, indicating a desperate need for quick solutions. “We are committed to our students and know that the best teachers are often those who come from the communities they serve,” said Larry Johnson, Executive Director of School Leadership, in a conversation with reporters. He referenced the Grow Your Own program, which prepares local residents for teaching careers, and an expanded partnership with Stark State College, where students can earn certification through an accelerated program. These initiatives, insiders say, already helped fill over 50 positions last year, but this time, the scale of the problem demands more radical steps. The Akron School Board is also considering the possibility of reinstating retired educators—a strategy becoming increasingly popular in states like Ohio and California, where shortages reach into the thousands. Sources within the board report that these "veterans" could receive temporary contracts with signing bonuses for quick return, which would not only fill vacancies but also transfer invaluable experience to younger colleagues. However, critics, including teachers’ unions, warn that this is a short-term fix that won't solve systemic problems such as uncompetitive salaries (the average teacher salary in Akron is about $55,000 per year, below the national average) or the lack of support for special education. In a broader context, this situation in Akron reflects a national crisis: the American Federation of Teachers reports that over 300,000 teaching positions remain unfilled nationwide, with a focus on urban districts. For Akron, a city with a population of about 190,000 where education is key to social mobility—especially for African American and Latino communities—these vacancies could lead to larger class sizes, less attention to individual students, and ultimately, lower academic achievement. “If we do not fill these positions, we risk losing an entire generation,” said one parent at a recent public hearing, highlighting how local schools have become battlegrounds for broader debates about education funding amid inflation and political divisions. The Akron administration calls on the community to get involved: “This is not just a job—it's an investment in the future of our city.” It remains to be seen whether the August 20 job fair can reverse the situation, but one thing is clear: without systemic changes, the teacher shortage will remain a chronic wound in American education.

We have already seen how Apple turns rumors into revolutions. From the first iPhones that revolutionized the mobile industry to modern devices integrated with artificial intelligence, the Cupertino company always manages to balance evolution with radical changes. According to our sources in the supply chain and industry analysts such as Ming-Chi Kuo from TF International Securities, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which debuts in just a month at Apple's annual September event, promises to be the pinnacle of this philosophy. While the new Air model will attract attention with its ultra-thin profile, Pro Max focuses on practical improvements that may convince even skeptics to upgrade their gadgets. Here are three key features, supported by leaks from Asian component suppliers, making this smartphone not just an update but a potential bestseller. Firstly, the anti-reflective display — this is not just a cosmetic detail but a real breakthrough in everyday use. According to data from Korean factories Samsung Display, which supplies screens for Apple, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will feature a new coating similar to Corning's Gorilla Glass Armor used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This nanostructured technology reduces glare by 75% compared to previous models, making the screen perfect for sunny days or bright office lighting. Industry insiders confirm that Apple has resolved manufacturing issues that delayed this feature in past years, and now it will combine with increased scratch resistance. Imagine: you're on the beach or in a park, and your smartphone doesn't turn into a mirror — this is not only convenient but could also prevent premature OLED panel burn-in. For those relying on their mobile devices for work on the go, this feature becomes a compelling argument for the Pro Max. Second — the largest battery in iPhone history, promising to end the "battery anxiety." According to leaks from Chinese suppliers like Sunway, the Pro Max's chassis will be 0.2 mm thicker to accommodate a battery capacity of over 4700 mAh — 10-15% more than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Bloomberg analysts note that this decision is partly driven by EU requirements for removable batteries by 2027, but Apple is using it to maximize autonomy. In my conversations with engineers close to the project, they mentioned optimization for iOS 26, which integrates AI features that consume more power, such as real-time photo processing or voice commands. The result? Up to 30 hours of video playback without charging, according to prototype tests. For professionals who shoot content or work in the field, these are not just figures — they are freedom from constantly searching for a socket, making the Pro Max an ideal companion for long days. Finally, camera upgrades that elevate the iPhone to the level of professional cinema equipment. Leaks from Sony and Largan Precision supply chains confirm that the front TrueDepth camera will increase to 24 megapixels (up from 12 MP), and the telephoto lens will move to 48 MP, making all three rear sensors equally powerful. This will allow 8x optical zoom without quality loss, as seen in Hollywood projects like "28 Years Later," which already used the iPhone for filming. Additional rumors backed by Apple patents mention a second camera control button for quick access, multi-camera video recording, and even a professional RAW editing app directly on the device. According to sources in Silicon Valley, these enhancements are integrated with the A19 Pro chip, which provides faster image processing through neural networks. For content creators or photography enthusiasts, this means the iPhone 17 Pro Max is not just capable of shooting — it inspires the creation of masterpieces, surpassing competitors such as Pixel 10 Pro. Of course, these rumors are not yet official, but Apple's pattern of turning leaks into reality makes them convincing. If you're hesitant to purchase, wait for September: the iPhone 17 Pro Max may become the device that not only updates but rethinks your digital world. And with potential price increases due to premium components, this is an investment in the future that will pay off handsomely.